Apple of Peru (Nicandra physalodes)
Description: An annual weed in the tomato family, 2'-5' in height, reproducing only by seed. Germinates continuously (spring, summer, and fall) in agriculture fields if sufficient moisture is available.
Life Cycle: Summer annual
Habitat: Soybean and vegetable fields.
Leaves: Spear-shaped leaves with jagged edges, alternately arranged, up to 8" long and 4" across.
Stem: Branching, ribbed.
Flower: Attractive, pale-violet,bell-shaped flower, 1–1½" across when fully open.
Fruit: A Green-brown berry develop inside lantern-shaped, papery bladder that turns brown as it matures.
The problem is…. a prolific seed producer. Large, persistent seed-banks quickly accumulate in the soil due to seed dormancy. Very competitive with soybeans and vegetable crops also has a low sensitivity to most commonly used herbicides.
